Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees

Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees are a delicious, no-bake treat perfect for the holiday season. These festive bars capture the essence of Christmas with their unique tree shape and delightful flavors. Chewy and crunchy, they combine the richness of peanut butter with a hint of caramel sweetness, making them an excellent choice for parties, family gatherings, or as a fun activity with kids. These treats not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also add a whimsical touch to your holiday dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No Baking Required: Enjoy the ease of a no-bake recipe that saves time and hassle during busy holidays.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of peanut butter, pretzels, and chocolate creates a delightful blend of sweet and salty flavors.
• Fun for Everyone: Shaping these bars into Christmas trees is an enjoyable activity for kids and adults alike.
• Customizable Decorations: Add your favorite sprinkles or edible decorations to make each tree uniquely yours.
• Great for Gifting: Package these bars in festive boxes or bags for thoughtful homemade gifts.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups
• Baking pan (9×9 inch)
• Parchment paper
• Knife (for cutting)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Rubber spatula: This tool helps scrape every bit of delicious mixture from the bowl, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
• Baking pan: Using a baking pan provides structure for your treats while they set, making it easier to cut them into shapes later.

Ingredients

These no bake peanut butter bars sliced into Christmas trees! They’re salted, chewy, crunchy, creamy, and have a hint of caramel flavor.

For the Base Layer

• 1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup (170g) Karo Light Corn Syrup
• 3/4 cup (190g) creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup (60g) crushed pretzels (see notes for GF option)
• 1 cup (100g) quick oats
• 2 cups (55g) crispy rice cereal

For the Topping

• 3/4 cup (130g) semisweet chocolate chips (regular or vegan)
• 1/2 cup (125g) creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 tbsp milk (regular or plant-based)
• 1-2 drops green gel food coloring
• Sprinkles of choice

How to Make Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Begin by lining your baking pan with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the bars later.

Step 2: Make the Base Layer

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the light brown sugar and Karo Light Corn Syrup.
2. Microwave this mixture in 30-second intervals until it’s bubbly.
3. Stir in the creamy peanut butter until well combined.
4. Add crushed pretzels, quick oats, and crispy rice cereal. Mix well until all ingredients are coated.

Step 3: Press into Pan

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking pan. Use a rubber spatula to press it down firmly into an even layer.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Topping

In another bowl:
1. Melt the semisweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals in the microwave.
2. Stir in additional creamy peanut butter until smooth.
3. Gradually mix in powdered sugar and milk until you achieve a thick consistency.

Step 5: Decorate Your Trees

Spread this chocolate mixture over the base layer evenly. Add green gel food coloring if desired, stirring until fully incorporated. Top with your choice of sprinkles for decoration.

Step 6: Set and Cut

Refrigerate for about 40 minutes or until firm. Once set, carefully lift out using the parchment paper and cut into tree shapes using a knife or cookie cutter.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees! Perfectly festive for any holiday occasion!

How to Serve Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees

Serving Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees can elevate your festive gatherings. These delightful treats not only taste amazing but also add a fun, decorative touch to your holiday table. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

Festive Dessert Platter

• Arrange the Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees on a large platter with other holiday sweets like cookies and fudge for a colorful display.

Individual Treat Bags

• Package each tree in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons. They make perfect party favors or gifts for friends and family.

Hot Chocolate Pairing

• Serve alongside steaming cups of hot chocolate. The creamy peanut butter flavor complements the rich chocolate perfectly.

Holiday Brunch Delight

• Add these treats to your holiday brunch spread. They pair well with coffee or tea, adding a sweet touch to the meal.

Gingerbread House Decorations

• Use mini trees as decorations on gingerbread houses for an edible winter wonderland that will impress guests.

How to Perfect Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees

To create the best Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees, follow these handy tips. With a few tweaks, you can enhance both their flavor and appearance.

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your peanut butter is creamy and fresh for the best texture.
• Crush pretzels finely: A fine crush allows for even distribution throughout the bars, enhancing crunchiness in every bite.
• Chill before cutting: Let the bars chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to set properly before slicing into tree shapes.
• Experiment with toppings: Get creative with sprinkles, nuts, or even edible glitter for added visual appeal.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar or powdered sugar based on your preference for sweetness.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees

Complement your Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees with some tasty side dishes that enhance your festive spread. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a light contrast to the richness of the bars.

2. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses paired with crackers balances out sweet flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser.

3. Vegetable Crudités
   Fresh veggies served with hummus provide a crunchy and healthy option amidst all the sweets.

4. Mini Quiches
   Bite-sized quiches filled with vegetables or cheese offer a savory treat that pairs well with dessert.

5. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted spiced nuts bring warmth and crunch, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your holiday spread.

6. Rice Krispie Treats
   These classic treats echo the crispy rice cereal in your bars while being easy to make and share.

7. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
   Combining sweet and salty flavors, these treats tie in beautifully with the peanut butter theme.

8. Pumpkin Soup
   A warm bowl of pumpkin soup can be a comforting addition, especially during colder months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the chilling time: Not allowing the bars to chill can result in a too-soft texture. Make sure to refrigerate them for at least an hour before slicing.
• Using the wrong peanut butter: Opt for creamy peanut butter for a smooth mix. Natural or crunchy varieties may not bind properly.
• Neglecting the right measurements: Accurate measurements ensure the right consistency. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially for sticky ingredients like peanut butter.
• Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too much can lead to a dense bar. Stir until just combined for the best texture.
• Forgetting about allergens: Always check ingredient labels if you’re serving guests with allergies. This ensures everyone can enjoy the treats.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees in an airtight container.
• They can last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm bars on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place bars on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees?
Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees are no-bake peanut butter bars shaped like trees, featuring a delightful blend of chewy oats, crispy rice cereal, and creamy peanut butter.

How do I customize Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees?
Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins! Try mini chocolate chips, dried fruits, or nuts for added flavor and texture.

Can I make Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees vegan?
Yes! Use plant-based chocolate chips and milk alternatives to keep this recipe vegan-friendly while still delicious.

What should I do if my mixture is too dry?
If your mixture seems dry, add a teaspoon of milk or more corn syrup gradually until it reaches the desired consistency.

How do I make these gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free pretzels and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

These Salted Peanut Butter Christmas Trees are not only festive but also versatile! You can easily customize them with different toppings or mix-ins based on your preferences. Whether you’re making them for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat at home, they’re bound to please everyone’s taste buds. Give them a try and enjoy their delightful flavors!